In a significant move aimed at enhancing aviation infrastructure in Telangana, the state government has approved the sanction of Rs 205 crore for the acquisition of over 280 acres of land to develop Mamnoor Airport in Warangal. This approval follows the issuance of a “No Objection” certificate by GMR Group, which manages the Rajiv Gandhi International Airport in Hyderabad, clearing the path for the airport’s development.
A Step Toward Improved Air Connectivity in Telangana
The development of Mamnoor Airport is poised to enhance air connectivity in the region, particularly by catering to the growing demand for air travel in Warangal and the surrounding areas. The government’s decision comes after the Airports Authority of India (AAI) expressed its readiness to develop the airport for operations of A-320 type aircraft, which can cater to both domestic and international flights.
In July 2022, the AAI communicated to the Telangana government its preparedness to handle the infrastructure costs, operational expenses, and maintenance of the airport. The proposed development aims to make the airport operational for Instrument Flight Rules (IFR), a requirement for managing regular commercial flights. This would enable the airport to support larger aircraft like the A-320, which is commonly used by airlines for short to medium-haul flights.
Land Acquisition and Master Plan for Mamnoor Airport
The project requires significant land acquisition, and Telangana’s government has allocated funds for this purpose. According to official documents, the state is set to acquire 280.30 acres of land for the airport’s development. Additionally, 253 acres of land will be earmarked for expanding the airport’s runway and infrastructure to accommodate future growth.
The AAI has also prepared a master plan for the proposed airport, which includes plans for runway expansion and terminal facilities capable of handling A-320 aircraft. The state government has been asked to expedite the process of transferring the required land to the AAI, as well as ensure that the land is free from encumbrances and available at no cost.
The government’s sanction of Rs 205 crore is aimed at covering the cost of acquiring the land for the airport, and officials have been instructed to complete the land acquisition proceedings at the earliest. The acquisition of this land is expected to play a critical role in shaping the future of Warangal’s air connectivity.
Overcoming Hurdles: GMR Group’s No Objection Certificate
One of the major challenges in the development of Mamnoor Airport was the need to secure a No Objection Certificate (NoC) from GMR Group, which manages Hyderabad’s Rajiv Gandhi International Airport. Under the concession agreement between the Ministry of Civil Aviation and GMR Group, no new or existing airports can be developed within a 150 km radius of Hyderabad Airport for domestic or international operations until 25 years after the opening of the Hyderabad airport.
Mamnoor Airport, located approximately 175 km from Rajiv Gandhi International Airport, faced this challenge, but the Telangana government, under the leadership of Minister Komatireddy Venkat Reddy, held several meetings with GMR officials to resolve the issue. These efforts led to the successful issuance of the NoC, which paved the way for the approval of the airport development project.
Strategic Importance of Mamnoor Airport
Mamnoor Airport’s development is expected to play a key role in improving air travel access for people in Warangal, a city that has historically been underserved by air connectivity. The airport will cater to the growing demands of the corporate sector, tourism, and other commercial sectors in the region. The improved connectivity is expected to drive economic growth and bring in more investment for Warangal and nearby areas.
The project also aligns with the Telangana government’s broader vision of improving infrastructure and fostering regional development. With the approval of Rs 205 crore for land acquisition, the state government is taking an important step toward transforming Mamnoor Airport into a regional hub for air travel.
Future Prospects: Expansion and Growth
Once completed, Mamnoor Airport will not only serve as a crucial transportation link but also contribute significantly to the state’s economic development. The airport’s long-term plans include expansion to accommodate international flights and larger aircraft. The initial focus will be on facilitating domestic flights, with potential international connectivity in the future.
As the airport expands, it is expected to create numerous job opportunities and promote industrial growth in Warangal and the surrounding areas. Additionally, the airport will improve the overall logistics and transportation infrastructure, making it easier to move goods and services across the region.
Conclusion
The Telangana government’s decision to sanction Rs 205 crore for the acquisition of land for the development of Mamnoor Airport marks a significant milestone in the region’s aviation sector. With the support of the Airports Authority of India, the backing of the Telangana government, and the clearance from GMR Group, the Mamnoor Airport project is set to transform Warangal into an important aviation hub in the state. The successful completion of this project will not only improve air connectivity but also boost the local economy and foster growth in the region.
With the completion of the land acquisition process and the launch of the airport expected in the coming years, the future of Mamnoor Airport looks promising, making Warangal a more accessible and attractive destination for travelers and businesses alike.
Source :
Economic Times, Link to article